Australian winters bring cooler nights and occasional frosts, especially in Sydney's higher areas, making proper care essential to prevent cracking from freeze-thaw cycles.
Draining and Cleaning
Completely drain all water from basins, pumps, and pipes using buckets or a wet vac to avoid ice expansion damage. Scrub algae and debris with mild soap and a soft brush, then rinse thoroughly—store disassembled parts in a dry, sheltered spot like a garage.
Pump Protection
Remove the pump, clean its impeller, and submerge it in a bucket of distilled water to prevent gasket drying. For solar models, detach and store the USB panel indoors to protect wiring from moisture.
Covering Features
Use breathable fountain covers or weighted tarps over drained features to block leaves while allowing airflow—avoid plastic sheeting which traps moisture. For rock or multi-drop fountains, net the area first to catch debris.
Special Cases
In mild winters, running features continuously with frost preventatives works for larger ponds, but shut down small birdbaths and bubble walls. For USB/solar units, charge panels fully before storage.
Spring Restart
Inspect for cracks, reassemble with fresh water and bacteria treatments, then test pumps gradually to ensure smooth seasonal revival.
